If you’re looking for an escape from the ordinary, her day trip to explore some unique places near Spokane? From historic sites like Mount Spokane and Nine Mile Falls to the natural beauty at Grand Coulee Dam, there are plenty of amazing things to see and do. With so much to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start – but don’t worry!
We’ve got your ultimate guide here with tips on making the most of your day trips from Spokane. Whether you’re keen on a road trip adventure or want some time away from your everyday routine, our list will help you plan the perfect one-day excursion. So pack up your bags, fuel your car, and let’s explore!
Mount Spokane
Located just an hour north of the bustling Spokane city center, Mount Spokane is a stunning outdoor recreational area that offers activities for those looking to explore and appreciate nature. Whether it’shikit’s hiking and biking trails, the lush forest trails, skiing down its picturesque slopes, or simply admiring its majestic views, Mount Spokane is one of the most remarkable outdoor destinations in the region.
Named after the region’s original inhabitants, the local indigenous tribes, this vast wilderness area is an exceptional place of extraordinary beauty. With its majestic river also taking its name from them, the possibilities and experiences to be had here are practically limitless.
There are endless miles of breathtaking hiking trails to explore in the summertime. As you traverse the difficult terrain, you will be richly rewarded by stunning views over majestic mountains and awe-inspiring landscapes, making every ounce of effort required well worth it.
Mount Spokane is an impressive landscape feature, towering at a remarkable height of almost 1800 meters. Its height stands out amongst the surrounding area, creating an awe-inspiring view that can be seen from afar. It provides a unique vantage point and offers breathtaking views of the region below.
Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge
Located just 40 minutes from downtown Spokane, the refuge is a great spot to immerse yourself in nature and observe some of the most beautiful wildlife and wildflowers.
The refuge covers more than 20,000 acres of varied terrain, including lush ponderosa pines, wetlands, meadows, and riparian habitats. This diverse landscape makes the Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge one of the unique places to visit within the entire National Wildlife Refuge System. It’s also expansive; visitors can explore trails that span different parts of the refuge. This includes a 5-mile loop trail and several shorter hiking paths for those who don’t want to be out for too long.
In addition to its beautiful landscapes, many visitors come to Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge for its abundant wildlife. Among them are bald eagles, songbirds, elk, coyotes, Turkey vultures, Canadian geese, and much more! During your visit, you may even get lucky enough to spot some rare species, like sandhill cranes or white pelicans, that migrate through this region yearly. Regarding flora, visitors can expect wildflowers like Shooting Stars, Lupines, and other native grasses.
This place also offers great recreational activities such as fishing (in certain designated areas), kayaking/canoing on Turnbull Slough Canal, or bird watching with binoculars at one of their many bird blinds along the trails. Don’t forget your camera either – there are plenty of amazing photo opportunities here!
Riverside State Park
Also situated on the banks of the Spokane River natural area is Riverside State Park, a stunning place to explore with miles of trails and paths ideal for those looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Located only 10 miles from Spokanes downtown, this park provides a great opportunity to spend some time in nature while still being close enough that it can be experienced in just one day.
The Bowl and Pitcher area is a particularly striking part of this location. Renowned for its awe-inspiring and tumultuous river flowing through a forest of towering trees. This picturesque site provides an unforgettable experience. Visitors take in the breathtaking views of the whitewater rapids crashing into deep pools.
This picturesque area is a beloved spot for hiking and camping, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. If you’d like to experience more of its beauty, why not stay overnight? Walking from soap lake to Spokane can be a great way to relax and reconnect with nature. But if that isn’t enough to completely recharge your batteries, staying the night will allow you plenty of time to revel in its serenity.
Spokane To Glacier National Park
If you want to take your time to appreciate the scenery on your journey from Spokane, Washington, to Glacier National Park, then the most straightforward route from Spokane to the west entrance of the park is approximately 5 hours. But why rush? Taking your time on this route will allow you to experience all these scenic journey offers. From awe-inspiring landscapes and breathtaking views. There’s plenty for travelers of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy on their road trip!
Driving from Spokane to Glacier National Park is a great way to enjoy the stunning scenery. There are plenty of cultural and historical attractions to explore. Although flying into Montana and renting a car can be expensive compared to other major airports, it can still be more cost-effective than taking multiple connecting flights or going by bus or train.
Idaho Panhandle National Forests
Exploring Spokane’s Best Day Trips is an exciting way to get the most out of your visit to the Inland Northwest region. The Idaho Panhandle National Forests are one of the best places to start. Sitting just south of Spokane, you’ll find a landscape filled with lush evergreen mountains and miles of rivers that support a world-class fishery. This makes it ideal for hikers and anglers alike.
The Idaho Panhandle National Forests offer something for everyone. From the best skiing in the country at Lookout Pass Ski Area to miles of biking trails through towering pines. If you’re an animal lover, you won’t be disappointed either. Big game like elk and deer wander amongst species such as grizzly bears, wolves, and caribou. Lake Mary Ronan and lake pend Oreille is other great spot for outdoor adventure seekers looking to fish or take a peaceful paddle around its serene shores.
No matter what activity you choose to fill your day with in Northern Idaho, there’s no doubt that you will find yourself in awe of its natural beauty. When you factor in trips further into Washington State, like Mount Rainier National Park or even Olympic National Park – located just over two hours away – it opens up even more opportunities for outdoor exploration. Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or just some leisurely sightseeing. These nearby destinations will surely provide experiences that will last long after your visit ends.
Colville National Forest
The Colville National Forest covers an expansive 1.5 million acres of land in Washington. It is a testament to the fact that the terrain east of the Cascade Mountains is flat and is largely unfounded. This lush landscape was formed 10,000 years ago when Ice Age glaciers carved out three major valleys. It is now known collectively as the Columbia Valley. It continues to serve as a defining feature of this region today.
Nine Mile Falls
Nine Mile Falls is a tranquil and picturesque small community situated on the banks of the magnificent Spokane River, between the stunning lit River Natural Area and the majestic Riverside State Park. These two areas of natural beauty provide an exquisite backdrop to Nine Mile Falls. This makes it an idyllic destination for those who appreciate nature’s wonders.
Named for what was once a spectacular, powerful waterfall, the area has sadly been affected by damming projects upstream. The waterfall is no longer in its original state. Despite this, visitors should not be dissuaded from exploring the rest of this stunning landscape. There is still plenty to see and marvel at, including awe-inspiring scenery which will take your breath away
McLellan Conservation Area
Located approximately 20 miles northwest of the city. The McLellan Conservation Area is situated along the lovely Spokane River.
Nestled in a secluded corner, this small piece of land is an oasis of tranquility throughout the year. Shielded from the hustle and bustle of city life by its remote location. Although many recreation areas near the city can become quite crowded during summertime, this hidden gem remains an untouched and peaceful haven.
Dry Falls
In its prime, Dry Falls was a majestic spectacle that would have been five times larger than the iconic Niagara Falls. It created an awe-inspiring view of thundering cascades that spanned for miles and miles. Unfortunately, the time has taken its toll on this natural wonder. It is now almost entirely dry, a stark reminder of the end of the last Ice Age.
Today, visitors to Dry Falls in Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park, located approximately one hundred miles west of Spokane, Washington, are still enthralled by sight before them. Even though there is now a lack of water running through it. The sheer magnitude of what were once majestic falls is quite stunning. One can easily make out its considerable size and appreciate its grandeur even after all these years.
Grand Coulee Dam
The awe-inspiring Grand Coulee Dam is situated west of Spokane, Washington. Constructed during the Great Depression in the 1930s. This monumental engineering marvel was developed with a twofold purpose. To generate hydroelectric power and create jobs. The structure harnesses the power of the Columbia River and has become an iconic symbol of American ingenuity.
The huge dam is an awe-inspiring construction, and the Roosevelt Reservoir, formed by precipitation runoff, is equally remarkable. However, what may be even more captivating is the contentiousness attached to the dam since it was erected. When this monumental structure was first constructed, many nearby native Indians were forced to relocate from their ancestral lands.
Walla Walla
Situated in the southeastern corner of Washington State, Walla Walla is a small city on the border with Oregon, located south of Spokane. This delightful town has recently gained attention for its flourishing wine industry. Tourists have flocked there to sample its renowned fruit. From stunning scenery to local wineries and tasting rooms. There’s no shortage of things to do when visiting this picturesque location.
Conclusion
Spokane is a great place to live for many reasons. One of which is its proximity to many beautiful and interesting places. If you’re looking for a day trip from Spokane, you have plenty of options. Whether you want to hike or ski mountains, enjoy the waterfalls at Nine Mile Falls, or taste some wines in Walla Walla. There’s something nearby for everyone to enjoy. So get out there and explore all that the area has to offer!